Franklin County Disaster Risk
Franklin County, Missouri
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Moderate
National Percentile
83th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#13
of 115 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
85th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Moderate
Higher than 85% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Relatively Low
Higher than 67% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 87% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 90% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Very Low
Higher than 18% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Franklin County, Missouri
Franklin County faces multiple serious hazards
At 83.46, Franklin County's composite risk score is among the nation's highest, with "relatively moderate" overall rating but severe exposure to floods (85.43), tornadoes (86.55), and earthquakes (89.85). This multi-hazard profile demands comprehensive planning and protection.
Second-highest risk in Missouri
Franklin County scores 83.46—well above Missouri's state average of 50.56 and second only to Greene County among the state's 114 counties. Its hazard footprint is unusually broad, spanning floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, and wildfires.
Significantly riskier than surrounding counties
Gasconade County nearby scores just 31.97, placing Franklin in an entirely different risk class. Franklin's flood risk (85.43) and tornado risk (86.55) are roughly double or more than most adjacent counties.
Floods, tornadoes, earthquakes demand attention
Flood risk (85.43), tornado risk (86.55), and earthquake risk (89.85) are Franklin County's "big three," each scoring in the upper 80s or 90s. Spring flooding along the Missouri River and Mississippi River tributaries, coupled with severe spring storms, creates a potent seasonal hazard cycle.
Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable
Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is critical if you're in or near a flood zone (mandatory if you have a mortgage in a mapped floodplain). Pair that with robust homeowners coverage that includes wind/tornado protection and seriously consider earthquake insurance given your 89.85 seismic risk score.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Franklin County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Franklin County
Risk Verdict
Franklin County faces a moderate natural disaster risk profile, ranking at the 83th percentile nationally under FEMA's composite risk model. This risk level calls for more than general awareness: insurance coverage review, a family communication plan, and a prepared go-bag are practical priorities.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Franklin County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 90th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 87th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (85th percentile), wildfire (67th percentile), hurricane (18th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Earthquake risk is Franklin County's leading natural hazard, ranked at the 90th percentile nationally. Securing tall furniture, water heaters, and bookcases to walls with anti-tip hardware is among the simplest and most effective life-safety measures households can take. The county's tornado risk at the 87th percentile nationally is a seasonal consideration alongside the year-round earthquake threat, requiring awareness of both hazard types. Franklin County residents should locate the main gas shutoff valve and keep an appropriate wrench nearby — gas leaks cause a significant share of earthquake-related injuries and fires, and the shutoff step is safe to take immediately after shaking stops.
Regional Context
Franklin County's composite risk score sits 32.9 points above the Missouri county average, placing it among the more hazard-exposed counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Franklin County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Franklin County, MO?
What types of natural hazards affect Franklin County?
How does Franklin County risk compare to the Missouri average?
Is Franklin County at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Franklin County higher risk than average?
Data Source
Risk data sourced from the FEMA National Risk Index (NRI). Risk scores are relative rankings (0–100) across all US counties — not absolute risk measures. Higher scores indicate higher relative risk compared to other counties.
Disclaimer: This data is informational only. It is not financial, insurance, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making insurance or real estate decisions.